Adaptations of a Tertiary Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery Department in Singapore during the COVID-19 Outbreak.
Ann Otol Rhinol Laryngol
; 130(2): 177-181, 2021 Feb.
Article
in English
| MEDLINE | ID: covidwho-691087
ABSTRACT
PURPOSE:
The novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak which was first reported in Wuhan, China has been declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization on March 11, 2020. Otorhinolaryngologists deal intimately with pathologies of the head and neck region and upper respiratory tract and have been reported as a vulnerable group of healthcare workers who may be more susceptible to COVID-19 nosocomial infection.METHODS:
In this article, we provide a comprehensive overview of the adaptations of Singapore's largest tertiary Otorhinolaryngology department during the COVID-19 outbreak. This was undertaken via an evidence-based approach. The relevant medical literature and evidence underlying our adaptations are highlighted.RESULTS:
A four-pronged strategy including (1) personnel segregation, (2) triaging and decantment, (3) use of personal protective equipment and (4) changes in clinical practice was employed. The strategy was bolstered by drawing upon a collective learnt experience from the 2003 Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) outbreak.CONCLUSION:
A rigorous framework which can preserve operationality while navigating the heightened risks during this outbreak is critical for every Otorhinolaryngology department. As the pandemic continues to evolve and more scientific reports of this disease are made available, approaches will need to be morphed.Keywords
Full text:
Available
Collection:
International databases
Database:
MEDLINE
Main subject:
Otorhinolaryngologic Diseases
/
Otorhinolaryngologic Surgical Procedures
/
Health Personnel
/
SARS-CoV-2
/
COVID-19
/
Hospital Departments
Type of study:
Observational study
/
Prognostic study
Limits:
Humans
Country/Region as subject:
Asia
Language:
English
Journal:
Ann Otol Rhinol Laryngol
Year:
2021
Document Type:
Article
Affiliation country:
0003489420946779
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